Matariki Hautapu Ceremony He waka Tapu

New Brighton Beach
Friday, 20th June 2025
5:20 AM – 8:00 AM
FREE EVENT - All invited.

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Things to Bring for Matariki Hautapu Ceremony

Personal Items

Warm clothing (it’s early morning and can be chilly)
Comfortable footwear (for walking on sand and uneven ground)
A reusable mug (for hot chocolate and Milo)
Hat and sunscreen (if weather is sunny)
Water bottle (stay hydrated)
Torch or flashlight (for early morning light)

For Participation

Positive intentions and good words (for sand art activity)
A blanket or mat (to sit on if desired)

Optional Items

Camera or phone (to capture moments respectfully)
Notebook or journal (for reflections during the ceremony)
Rain jacket or umbrella (weather dependent)

SCHEDULE:

He Kupu Whakataki – Introduction

5:20 AM – 5:30 AM

Welcome to all attendees
Karakia timatanga (opening prayer)
Brief explanation of Matariki and the significance of Hautapu
Acknowledge mana whenua (local iwi)

Te Whāngai i te Hautapu – The Ceremonial Offering

5:30 AM – 6:00 AM

Lighting of the umu/hāngī or ceremonial fire at 5:30 AM
Ritual begins
Karakia led by kaumātua or designated leader to open the ritual and acknowledge the presence of the stars and ancestors

Tirohanga ki ngā Whetū – Viewing the Stars

6:00 AM – 6:15 AM

Guided moment to look towards the eastern horizon to observe the Matariki star cluster
Explanation of each star in the cluster and its significance
Quiet reflection

Te Whakamahara i te Hunga Mate – Honouring the Departed

6:15 AM – 6:25 AM

Reading or speaking the names of those who have passed in the last year
Moment of silence in remembrance
Karakia tuku wairua (prayer to release the spirits)

Te Whakatakoto i te Hautapu – Unveiling the Hautapu and Feeding the Stars

7:00 AM – 7:20 AM

Opening of the umu
Formal offering of kai to the stars
Karakia acknowledging the rising of Matariki and the spiritual connection to the atua
Giving thanks for the harvest and asking for guidance in the new year

Te Whakanui i te Tau Hou – Celebrating the New Year

7:20 AM – 7:40 AM

Karakia whakamutunga (closing prayer)
Hot chocolate and Milo available for all – please bring your own mug if possible!
Time for connection and whakawhanaungatanga (relationship building)

Sand Art for Kaitiakitanga – Positive Intentions

7:40 AM – 8:00 AM

Participants create sand art on the beach with good words and positive intentions
Reflect on the role of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over the environment and community
Collective sharing of hopes and aspirations for the year ahead